If you’re heading off into the woods for your next camping adventure, you don’t have to leave your phone behind! Solar power banks are the portable option to charge and recharge all your smart devices so that you can enjoy the outdoors but keep yourself up-to-date on the modern world.
Solar power banks are awesome little portable devices that double as traditional charging banks and solar panel chargers. They can charge via traditional USB, or charge via the natural power of the sun! When placed in direct sunlight, the panels on these portable solar power banks transform sunlight into energy, which charges the device’s lithium battery. Then you can simply plug in your smartphone or other device via the cable and watch as they’re charged back to 100%. But how do you choose the right solar power bank, and how do you know which one is right for your smartphone? We’ve put together a list of the best solar power banks on the market!
Read on to see why our experts love these solar power banks!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do solar power banks take to charge in the sun?
When under direct sunlight, solar power banks can charge in a matter or hours or days, depending on the quality of the power bank, the solar panels, and the size of the battery. While the technology is amazing, it’s still not as quick to charge as traditional electricity and might require a little patience. If you leave your solar power bank out to charge all day long while you enjoy your other hiking or camping activities, you can charge your phone in the afternoon or night.
Are solar power banks portable?
Solar power banks are designed to take with you when you go on your next outdoor excursion. They’re portable, lightweight, and many of them can be folded up and placed in your backpack or camping gear bag. Because they are portable, they can charge your smart devices on the go, such as when your phone is in your bag. The most attractive feature of solar power banks is their portable charging feature.
Buying Guide
We’ve put together this fun Buying Guide to help you streamline your shopping experience. Check it out!
- Battery size: Depending on your needs, you might be fine with a smaller portable charger. In some cases you may need a power bank with bigger battery capacity. Look through the summary and features of each listing to find the battery that’s right for you.
- Extra features: Compass, LED flashlight, multiple charging ports—extra features can make or break your purchase, so read through the Why We Love It section to see which features come with the solar power bank.
- Portability: While all these solar power banks are portable, they’re also different sizes. Some are lightweight and the size of a typical smartphone, others are larger and meant to be set down to charge. Read through each listing to find the one that’s the right size for you.
Xooparc Solar Charger
Most Versatile
Allows you to charge your device via battery or directly via solar panel
This solar charger can charge two devices simultaneously. With its large 26800-mah capacity, the charger can also power most devices between six to eight times. It’s the perfect charger for camping or hiking for long periods.
Pros:
- Features an LED indicator to show battery life
- Features a 5.9-inch solar panel to catch more sun
Cons:
- Takes up to six hours to fully charge from a wall socket
Minrise Solar Power Bank
Largest Capacity
Has a heavy-duty 30000-mAh capacity
This power bank can charge some of the most power-hungry phones up to eight times. It has dual inputs and dual outputs and can be used to charge two devices in one go. It can also automatically adjust its output to deliver the most appropriate current.
Pros:
- Comes with overcharge protection
- Compact and lightweight
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a water-resistant design
LICORNE Solar Power Bank
Most Innovative design
Allows for wireless charging
This well-built power bank comes with six outputs, enabling you to charge multiple devices simultaneously. It also features a flashlight that can be set to three different modes for low-light outdoor scenarios. The product is made with durable ABS and PC silicone and is IP66-waterproof rated.
Pros:
- Dust- and shockproof
- Features two input ports
Cons:
- May be too heavy for some users
JIGA Solar Charger
Best for Multiple Devices
Features four inputs and three outputs
This power bank has a 30000-mAh battery that supports charging three devices in one go. It includes a range of safety features such as over-voltage and short-circuit protection, so you can have peace of mind when recharging your expensive devices.
Pros:
- Made of durable double-layer PVC material
- Features an emergency flashlight
Cons:
- Recharging the power bank takes a while
VOOE Solar Charger
Fastest Charging
Comes with advanced smart chips to offer maximum charging speed
This 26800-mAh solar charger can charge phones and tablets between six and eight times. It comes with an additional solar panel for emergency situations. It includes short-circuit and overheating protection to keep your devices safe.
Pros:
- Compatible with iOS and Android devices
- Features an LED battery life indicator
Cons:
- May be too heavy and bulky for some users
